Hi All,

Just bought a condo and the sliding glass door was installed with the moving panel going to the outside. It's also in bad need of new or fixed rollers. I'm aware that this isn't actually wrong, since it helps with the weather resistance of the door and there is very little over hang to keep water away from the door when it rains. So... 1. Is it even possible to move the panels of the slider so that the door slides to the inside? 2. Is that really a smart idea given that it could rain right on the door? and 3. How the heck do I beef up the security of the door?

I know a glass door is made of glass and they're fairly easy to break into no matter what, but will the new rollers and a decent locking latch make a harder job of lifting the sliding panel out?

Thanks!

 

Welcome to the forums! The movable panel, obviously can be removed by lifting and pulling out. While you have it out, change the rollers. The fixed panel is usually held in via clips. These clips can be located in the upper and lower track, or elsewhere. You'll just have to look. Once the fixed panel is released, move it toward the center and lift it up and out. Install the movable panel first, then the fixed panel, securing it as it was originally.
Beef up security of a glass panel? Aside from changing the lockset and using a broomhandle at the bottom when not in use, you answered your own question.

 

I'm not sure I agree with chandler about moving the panels. It all depends on the door. Most of them are not designed to have the slider to the inside, for the very reason you mentioned. Is there even a track in the inner channel of the frame?

Nothing you can do about the glass of course, but there are several types of pins that can be used to lock the panels together. They even have some that are toe actuated.

 

With respect. Been in the door/window business for 25 years on Long Island. And "ALL "" sliding patio doors have the movable sash on the inside track. If yours is not is was installed inside out. Many condos have cheap aluminum doors that can be installed backwards. Take a good look . Security ???
Nothing is as good as a tension Bar. for about 10 bucks or less.

 

I misspoke (and then thought I really messed up!) when I said "most of them are not designed to have the slider to the inside". I meant not to the outside...otherwise the broomstick and tension bars would never work. As Nevar stated...I have also seen people put them in backwards, cause they couldn't read instructions about reversing the handing.

Didn't Pella doors also have the moving panel outside? I know their screens were on the inside...THAT was weird.

btw...personally, I like the pins better the the bars. If the door is badly adjusted or has a cheap frame..you can break the lock and still lift it out. When you pin the panels and frame together..it makes it quite a bit tougher. Of course, belt AND suspenders doesn't hurt.